The Golden State Warriors have intensified their search for a reliable center to support Draymond Green following their 2025 playoff exit. After being eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games, coach Steve Kerr emphasized the need for an alternative to Green starting at center. This concern is deeply connected to the Warriors’ ongoing negotiation challenges with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, which is impacting roster decisions.
Contract Negotiations with Kuminga Stall Offseason Plans
The Warriors’ ability to sign key players, including veteran center Al Horford and guard DeAnthony Melton, is currently stalled due to unresolved talks with Kuminga. This impasse has prevented Golden State from adding crucial pieces, even as rival Western Conference teams have significantly upgraded their rosters. Without a resolution, the Warriors risk falling behind competitors, especially as they struggle to match the Timberwolves’ size and physicality that exposed weaknesses during their playoff loss.
“The Warriors’ offseason moves are all waiting on a resolution to the Jonathan Kuminga saga, per @MarcJSpears. Al Horford joining Golden State, plus potentially re-signing Gary Payton II, are two transactions being held up by their stalemate with Kuminga.” —Evan Sidery, Reporter
Al Horford Remains a Valuable Option Despite Career Stage
Even in the latter phase of his career, Al Horford has maintained a high level of productivity and versatility, adapting as a prominent stretch big in the NBA. His recent championship-winning season with the Boston Celtics in 2024 demonstrated his ability to compete effectively against the league’s top centers. During the 2024-2025 season, Horford averaged 9.0 points and 6.2 rebounds over 60 games, while shooting over 36 percent from three-point range during the regular season and 40 percent in the playoffs.
This blend of experience, floor spacing, and size would address critical gaps in the Warriors’ center rotation, providing coach Kerr with more flexibility to reduce the strain on Draymond Green throughout the season.
Timing for Horford’s Future With Warriors Uncertain
ESPN‘s Anthony Slater recently reported that most NBA insiders anticipate Horford joining Golden State once the Kuminga impasse is resolved. Sources reveal that while Horford is considering retirement, he remains patient and understands the current hold-up in finalizing his contract. The Warriors are reportedly operating under the assumption that Horford will be part of next season’s roster, even as talks remain unresolved.
“One key player to keep an eye on … right now is forward Jonathan Kuminga.” —@ShamsCharania
“Horford is comfortable waiting. Retirement remains on the table, sources said, though the Warriors appear to be operating as if he is a firm part of their plan next season.” —Anthony Slater, ESPN
“Along with Horford and Melton, both Gary Payton II and Seth Curry are two other players widely speculated to be in the mix for minimum contracts with the Warriors.” —@BrettSiegelNBA
Broader Implications for the Warriors’ Roster and Championship Aspirations
The unresolved Kuminga situation not only affects the present roster structure but also delays the Warriors’ ability to fully prepare for a highly competitive Western Conference. With key players like Gary Payton II and Seth Curry also waiting on contract decisions, Golden State’s offseason progress has been considerably hindered. The longer the stalemate continues, the more difficult it may become for the team to recapture the championship form they exhibited in previous seasons.
Resolving the Kuminga contract conflict stands as a pivotal factor influencing whether the Warriors can integrate Horford and other veteran contributors to maintain their championship contention. The path forward depends heavily on negotiations wrapping up soon to allow the team to finalize its roster before training camp and the upcoming season.